In the quiet community near Twin Arrows, just outside of Flagstaff, Arizona, Mary Smeal, a 55-year-old woman, was found deceased in her home on Wednesday, November 16, 2016. The discovery was made by Coconino County sheriff's deputies after a concerned coworker reported that she had not arrived for work and was not responding to calls or knocks at her door.
Upon entering the residence, authorities found Ms. Smeal with gunshot wounds.
Alongside her was the body of her 57-year-old companion, Jeffery Jones. Evidence recovered from the scene led investigators to conclude that the deaths were the result of a murder-suicide. It is believed that Mr. Jones shot Ms. Smeal before taking his own life. The investigation into the tragic event was handled by the Coconino County Sheriff's Office and the Coconino County Medical Examiner's Office.
Mary Smeal was a beloved and highly regarded member of her community, known for her significant contributions and dedication. She was particularly recognized for her instrumental role in the restoration of the historic Twin Arrows landmark on Route 66. Friends and colleagues remembered her as a driving force behind numerous preservation and clean-up projects, even personally financing the materials for the restoration of the arrows. Her passing was a profound loss for those who knew her and for the community she served with passion.
